Thai F-16 Fighters Intercept Myanmar Jet in Airspace Breach

[webfact]

F-16 file photo courtesy: Wikipedia

 

In a swift response to a potential security threat yesterday, two F-16 fighters from the Thai air force were deployed to intercept an unidentified aircraft intruding into Thai airspace. This incident occurred over Popphra district in Tak province, which borders Myawaddy township in Myanmar.

 

The alert was raised at around 11 a.m. when radar systems detected the aircraft entering Thai airspace at an altitude of 4,000-5,000 feet. The air force's interception flight control promptly ordered the F-16s to take off from their base at Wing 4 in Takhli district, Nakhon Sawan province. The fighters ascended to 7,000 feet, on a mission to identify and potentially ward off the intruding jet.

 

The quick deployment underscores the air force's readiness to protect national sovereignty and the integrity of Thailand’s airspace, as stressed by ACM Prapass Sonjai, the air force spokesman. "The rapid interception underscores our capability to respond to threats and ensure security for our citizens near border areas," he stated.

Upon reaching the location, the Thai jets discovered that the intruding aircraft had vanished from radar screens. Concluding the initial phase of their mission, the F-16s continued to patrol the border region until returning safely to base at 12:14 p.m.

 

While the aircraft's origin remains officially unidentified, this incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding airspace violations and regional tensions. The interception demonstrates Thailand's proactive stance in safeguarding its airspace, particularly along volatile border areas where incursions, whether accidental or deliberate, pose severe security risks.

 

Such operations are critical in maintaining regional peace and stability, showcasing Thailand’s capabilities and commitment to defending its boundaries. It's pivotal for the Thai air force to remain vigilant and prepared for any future breaches that could escalate into broader conflicts. As the incident demonstrated no immediate threat, diplomatic channels may play a role in addressing and preventing future airspace violations, potentially easing tensions between neighbouring nations.

 

This event spotlights the continuing necessity for robust air defense mechanisms and international cooperation to prevent misunderstandings that could lead to more significant regional issues. The air force's decisive action reflects its vital role in national security, promising steadfast protection of the airspace across Thailand, reported Thai Newsroom.

 

-- 2024-12-21

 

 

[flyingtlger]

12 minutes ago, webfact said:

The quick deployment underscores the air force's readiness to protect national sovereignty and the integrity of Thailand’s airspace...

 

Go get em' Tom Som Chai Cruise!

[JoePai]

Intercept Myanmar Jet in Airspace Breach 

 

But then goes on to say

 

Upon reaching the location, the Thai jets discovered that the intruding aircraft had vanished from radar screens.

 

Question - how was this non existent intruder intercepted if it was not there ?

[Hunz Kittisak]

I’m surprised the Burmese airforce has airworthy planes 

[Jenkins9039]

26 minutes ago, Hunz Kittisak said:

I’m surprised the Burmese airforce has airworthy planes 

Spitfires old boy

[Srikcir]

3 hours ago, JoePai said:

Question

How was the aircraft identified as a Mynamar jet? Was IFF used? Did pilots talk over an international frequency? Did Thai pilot make a missile lockon BVR, ie., 30-105km max range? 

If jet was Mynamar, this would be the third Thai airspace intrusion in about a year. 

6 hours ago, webfact said:

radar systems detected the aircraft entering Thai airspace at an altitude of 4,000-5,000 feet.

This height suggest a ground military support role. Not the first time a Mynamar jet flew into Thai airspace for a bombing run against Mynamar insurgents operating near the Thai border. The Thai military response was to protest the incursion.

[Phillip9]

So they couldn't find the intruding aircraft.  Doesn't really give me confidence in their competence.

[hotchilli]

6 hours ago, flyingtlger said:

 

Go get em' Tom Som Chai Cruise!

Too late they vanished..

[Scouse123]

Has Myanmar got a jet?

[Sydebolle]

Shoot them down next time - will put the whole genocide by the tadmadaw onto the world map; everything else is Thai-style pussy footing around the uniformed brethren in the West - a disgrace for Thailand indeed 😞 

[klauskunkel]

7 hours ago, webfact said:

The air force's interception flight control promptly ordered the F-16s to take off from their base at Wing 4 in Takhli district,

after lunch, then

7 hours ago, webfact said:

the Thai jets discovered that the intruding aircraft had vanished from radar screens.

 

[Burma Bill]

2 hours ago, Hunz Kittisak said:

I’m surprised the Burmese airforce has airworthy planes 

 

IT HAS - reference Google)

 

China's supply of fighter jets, such as the FTC-2000G, has helped the junta maintain air superiority, and that has caused widespread casualties across Myanmar. According to media reports, this delivery in August 2024 is the second batch of FTC-2000G jets received by Myanmar's military.Oct 9, 2024

 

[Briggsy]

1 hour ago, Sydebolle said:

Shoot them down next time - will put the whole genocide by the tadmadaw onto the world map; everything else is Thai-style pussy footing around the uniformed brethren in the West - a disgrace for Thailand indeed 😞 

They tried playing hard ball with the neighbours in Rom Klao. Didn't work out very well.

 

ASEAN has a non-interference policy.

 

Everybody is watching China's position.

 

Thailand won't be shooting down any Myanmar government fighter aircraft soon.

[simon43]

1 hour ago, Scouse123 said:

Has Myanmar got a jet?

They have many jets that they use to bomb and kill innocent civilians.  All jets and spare parts purchased from Russia and China....

[BusyB]

Shame they couldn't be bothered to intercept MH370.

[twizzian]

I saw those jets zooming across quite close and low to our village.

They probably rarely see any action & those pilots probably enjoyed that emergency scramble.

[John Drake]

Looks like these F16s work well enough. No need to buy new jets.

[NoDisplayName]

11 hours ago, webfact said:

Upon reaching the location, the Thai jets discovered that the intruding aircraft had vanished from radar screens.

 

If the Myanmarinarian aircraft did indeed unintentionally enter Thai airspace, it would likely have only been for a few seconds.

 

Given that it should take 10-15 minutes to get a wunderweapon into the air, no wonder the the intruder had vanished.

 

 

[Moonlover]

2 hours ago, BusyB said:

Shame they couldn't be bothered to intercept MH370.

Why should they have? 'The aircraft was not in Thai airspace and it was not a threat to Thailand'.

 

https://www.france24.com/en/20140319-thai-radar-unknown-aircraft-mh370-malaysia

[Moonlover]

1 hour ago, John Drake said:

Looks like these F16s work well enough. No need to buy new jets.

They are running out of 'fatigue life'. All aircraft do eventually. That's why they have to be replaced.